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what_heather_loves 's review for:

Murder at the Theatre Royale by Ada Moncrieff
3.5
funny lighthearted mysterious fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: No
Loveable characters: Complicated
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

"In the week, months and indeed years that followed the vomiting was the one detail that Daphne omitted from every re-telling of the events of December 1935. The other details she would describe in intricate and vivid terms, each retelling bringing a new and startling revelation. Clues she could have spotted earlier, intimations of voice that unwitting disclosed truths, questions she wished she had asked."

In London, bright but under-appreciated journalist Daphne, AKA agony aunt 'Dear Susan', gets her big break when (standing-in for a colleague interviewing theatre actors) when one collapses dead on stage. Naturally she is determined to find out the truth of what happened and why. 
I loved Daphne's intelligence and determination, combined with the cast of witty characters (some loveable some definitely dislikeable) and the fast plot, propelled forwards with every discovery Daphne makes. The historical, London theatre setting with its well-loved theatres and pubs, and its dramatic characters makes for engaging reading. Not necessarily the most original setting or type of characters, this was easy to read and enjoy, helped by Daphne's strong voice, the author's writing style and and the affectionate humour.

Seasonal and historical cosy crime with a theatre setting and a Lucy Eyelesbarrow-esque (Christie's younger Miss Marple-esque detective in 4:50 From Paddington) protagonist, makes for a thoroughly enjoyable read. I'd definitely read more of Daphne's investigative journalism.